A pet grooming table is an important part of the grooming process, no matter if you’re buying one for your home or your newly opened salon. Having one will make the grooming much easier for you and your pet. It comes in handy not just for washing and brushing, but also when you’re cutting their nails or cleaning their ears. Once you have the right model, it’ll cut down the grooming time and make you and the dog feel safe and comfortable.
Types of Grooming Tables
Electric Tables
There are several types of grooming tables you can choose from, but the electric one is probably the best one you can buy. These tables are very practical, even though they’re a bit more expensive than the others. Its height adjustment feature is one of its greatest benefits. It’s simple to raise and lower with just a single push of a button. The durable, easy-to-use electric grooming table will be your best friend.
Many models have a rotating tabletop, which can be a very practical feature. Manufacturers use different materials to make them. Some even are equipped with rubber surfaces, to prevent your pets from slipping and sliding. The little one will feel much sturdier while you do your work. But the rubber grooves can hold dirt and make the table difficult to clean, which some people consider a disadvantage.
Some electric tables have additional accessories like leashes and nooses for fidgety or energetic pets. A lot of them include drawers and cupboards so you can store your grooming supplies. You can even plug in your driers or clippers to the power outlets on certain tables. They come in many sizes, and you can choose one depending on the dog’s size and breed.
Many of these tables can handle a weight of around 120kg, which is more than enough to accommodate any dog breed. The up-and-down movement is usually very silent and vibration-free. This makes it a safe place for the pet to be, they won’t get scared or intimidated by the motion. Most of them go as low as 25cm and as high as 95cm, which is a very flexible height to work with.
Having an electric table comes with many benefits. The main one is the ergonomic comfort. The adjustability allows you to control its height, so you groom it in the most comfortable position. This reduces the strain on your neck, back and shoulders. It allows you to customise and personalise your working space to your and the pet’s needs and preferences.
Folding Tables
The folding table is probably the most budget-friendly option you’ll find on the market. It’s suitable for both professional groomers and for pet owners grooming at home because it doesn’t take up much space and it’s easy to store. You can also use it as a nail station or a drying table. You can even find folding tables that can be manually adjusted in height.
To do this, you’ll need to flip the table over, and individually adjust each leg. On average, you can adjust them between 60-80cm. Some of them will have some extra features but not as many as the electric grooming table has. One great thing about the folding tables is that they’re very lightweight and can be easily stored. The only disadvantage is their inability to hold large dog breeds.
Hydraulic Tables
The hydraulic dog grooming table might be your thing if you’re not a fan of automation. It includes a hydraulic pump that enables you to customise the table’s height. Plus, it’s very simple to operate. There’s a foot pedal on the bottom you just step on and move it either way. You might get annoyed when you need to adjust it for every different dog that comes. But it’s still better than doing it by hand.
Frame Styles
X-Style
This is one of the sturdiest and most durable grooming table frames on the market. The beams are connected on several levels, which brings more stability to the whole structure. And even if the dog on top is moving a lot or jumping, you’ll still get a firm and safe surface to work with. The smooth up-and-down movement it has will save you space as well.
Z-Style
This is a very popular table frame and one of the most commonly used. You can find it with hydraulic or electric tables. Keep in mind that these tables move slightly horizontally when you want to adjust their height. So, make sure you leave a bit of space between the table and the wall.
What to Consider When Buying a Grooming Table
Materials
If you want to get a sturdy and durable grooming table, you should pay attention to the material it’s made of. If you mostly use it for bathing, you’ll need to get a stainless-steel one. This way you know it won’t rust. Make sure the table is rounded so neither you nor the dog will bump into sharp corners. There are also electric grooming tables made of aluminium, which is another good option.
The Pet’s Size and Weight
This is another important thing to consider. It can be very impractical and not very comfortable to work with a small dog on a big table, or with a large dog on a small table. Also, there will be a difference in the restraining features such as harnesses and nooses. Logically, bigger dogs need sturdier and stronger restraining systems.
The pet should have enough space on the table to stand comfortably without being overly cramped. A bigger, more durable grooming table is what you should buy if your pet is heavier. Although moving and transporting it can be challenging, doing so will keep both you and your pet a lot safer. A lightweight dog can fit on a folding table, but a big one will certainly not, so keep the pet’s size in mind.
Your Height
The table’s height should also be suitable for your height. To get the optimal working atmosphere and feel as comfortable as you can, the god should be around your waist in height. Don’t crouch or strain while you’re doing your job. This will have consequences on your shoulders, back and neck. So, to prevent strain, you should get an adjustable table and find the position that makes you the most comfortable.
Table Arms
One of the most crucial components of the table is the table arms. They’re the ones holding the restraints to some hooks. There are 2 types of arms you’ll find. The H-arm is a great option for pets who tend to get scared or panic because it’s always fixed into place. They have at least 2 hooks to make the dog safer. There are also regular arms that don’t really restrict the pet as much. Plus, they’re foldable and adjustable so you can position the pet in the most comfortable position.
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